Tonga has received AU$185,350 in biosecurity equipment to enhance trade safeguards.
The Ministry of Agriculture received quarantine and sanitary gear funded under the PACER Plus Development and Economic Cooperation (DEC) program. It includes a digitised Quarantine Management Information System, fumigation chamber, protective gear, inspection tools and an incinerator—all designed to raise Tonga’s sanitary and phytosanitary standards and maintain export access to Australia and New Zealand.
Hon. Siosiua Moala Halavatau, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forests, said, “This is not just a handover of tools. It’s a handover of confidence for our farmers, for our exporters, and for our consumers.…With this support from PACER Plus, we are better equipped to ensure the quality and safety of our exports…”
Mr Roy Lagolago, head of the PACER Plus Implementation Unit, highlighted the importance of collaboration, saying “The PPIU is proud to partner with PHAMA Plus … avoids duplication of efforts and resources. … a conduit for increased trade under PACER Plus.”
Senior Assistant Secretary Seini Tu’ivai noted the fumigation chamber will transform operations. “This new equipment is a considerable asset … will greatly expedite the fumigation process, making our work much more efficient.”
The handover marks continued progress in PACER Plus’ regional goal to build sustainable capacity for Pacific exporters. Tonga anticipates further support through DEC programs, with enhanced monitoring and additional trade-enabling investments expected later this year.
